Parties all show their true metal

The naval phrase "copper-bottomed" (Letters, 21 September), recently revived by the government sarcastically to characterise Ed Miliband, has its origin in the copper sheathing used in 1761 to protect the frigate HMS Alarm's hull from the deleterious effects of shipworm and marine weeds. Worked a treat, I've heard.Austen LynchGarstang, Lancashire

• The police claim that Barclays Bank has fallen victim to a team of "significant players within a sophisticated and determined organised criminal network" (£1.3m Barclays heist – eight held, 21 September). Is this a definition of irony?Nigel GannChiselborough, Somerset

• So the Lib Dems have a shortage of female MPs (Report, 19 September). Let's hope that following the general election that problem will be solved by them having a shortage of male MPs also.Mick JopeMaidstone, Kent

• Nick Clegg is concerned about the computer game Grand Theft Auto (Clegg warns of 'corrosive' games, 21 September). What about the effect of Grand Theft Royal Mail? And will it sell as well?Roy HarrisonBristol

• "Progress in the corridors is slow, occasionally stationery" (Esther Addley's sketch, 21 September). Perhaps delegates at the Ukip conference were trying to work out their next move on the back of an envelope. John Batey Bedlington, Northumberland